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In the unlikely event that you have ever stopped to think about federalism, you probably didn’t think about it very long. On the surface, it is not one of the most exciting topics in American government and politics. However, it is one of the most important aspects of the United States constitutional system. If you are in the United States somewhere as you take this course, you are residing in one of fifty states that make up the United States. The state you live in has counties, cities, towns, and other governmental units. Each of these has a structure, rules, guidelines, and a budget. But all of these levels of government are subject to the rules and guidelines passed by the national government. Consequently, you are likely to be impacted by multiple levels of government every time you leave your house. In this lesson, you will have the opportunity not only to learn about the American federal system but also about how various levels of government function and how they affect your life in ways that might surprise you.

1. Identify and explain the concept of federalism.
2. Explore the debate between federal supremacy and states' rights.
3. Examine the unique relationship between the sovereign American Indian nations and the United States government.
4. Describe the powers given to local governments.
5. Understand the structure and function of local government.
6. Discuss how federal monies influences local policy and decision-making.
7. Explore current issues affecting local governments, that is, spending, state v. local control, and land use.
8. Examine how public education is a function of state and local government.

For more information, look up the following Web site(s):

• Articles of Confederation
• National Governors Association
• The Federalist, No. 39
• Executive Order on Federalism (Pres. Clinton)
• Unfunded Mandate Reform Act of 1995